This is the longest trip we have ever taken! Cruising the Adriatic and Ionian Seas for 15 days and then spending a few extra days in Istanbul. The advantage of a cruise is that you see all the amazing cities and cultures that developed along the waters of our wonderful planet, but you do miss some of the highlights that lie inland.
We saw some amazing sites and ancient architecture. The cultures that developed over millennia in this part of Europe and Asia are amazing. We started in Venice, headed to Croatia (Split and Dubrovnik), to Kotor, Montenegro, then south to Greece (Corfu, Katakolon, Athens, Crete (Heraklion) and Rhodes). Our final stops were in Turkey (Ephesus, Troy (Canakkale) and Istanbul).
Venice was a beautiful spot to start. We didn’t have enough time to soak in the food and culture, but the history and architecture were a delight. Even off-season, it was pretty crowded with tourists.
Croatia was impressive. It truly felt medieval. It felt big and strong. Kotor felt Venetian, and the entryway into the city was impressive.
Corfu, again, felt the Venetian influence. We did get to see a soap-making operation that is UNESCO-listed. Very interesting.
On to Olympia (Katakolon, Greece)! Our first taste of ancient Greek ruins. Then to Athens. Of course the Acropolis was a must-see, but the Museum was even better. Athens is a large, bustling city. Some interesting graffiti and tasty food. Not a place I would choose to live in, but a good place to visit.
Ancient civilizations and amazing artwork highlighted Crete and Rhodes. The museums are beautiful. One afternoon and dust storm came across the Mediterranean from the Sahara. The skies turned orange, and the ship was covered in fine powder (and hazardous to your health).
Finally, we ended up in Turkey. Ephesus with its ancient library and massive amphitheater. Excavations date back to 10 c BCE. Troy has a fascinating history – with layers upon layers of archaeological finds. And, of course, a damn big horse.
Istanbul, which straddles two continents, was wonderful. A very lively and modern city with ancient roots. It is multi-cultural, multi-religious, and multi-ethnic. Truly a crossroads. We visited all the highlights that the city offered: the Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque, the Grand Bazaar, the spice market, and even a river cruise. My favorite spot was the Roman-era cisterns that underlie the City.
